I have never celebrated Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) because I was born and raised in Chicago and I suppose Chicago Mexicans don't really celebrate that holiday like they do in Mexico or even California. Dia De Los Muertos (which takes place Nov. 2nd) is a day to gather family and friends and to remember family members who have passed away.
Traditionally an altar is made to honor the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, the favorite foods and beverages of the departed...all which are placed on their graves. DIa De Los Muertos was also traditionally an Aztec ritual.
While in California last month my sister Myra decided she was going to venture off into TJ (Tijuana) because she is ballsy and has a passport. I, however, did not feel the same enthusiasm about going to TJ. As my sister was on her way with her boyfriend Rene I had two pieces of advice for her: 1. Do NOT go see a donkey show. 2. Do NOT get your head chopped off by the Mexican drug cartels.
Upon her return she came bearing gifts...ceramic sugar skulls! I have an infatuation with sugar skulls. The brightly painted colors, so Mexican and so traditional. While Paul and I were walking to the beach in Encinitas we found a store that had two tiles with skeletons on them, I fell in love with them immediately. I had been searching for kitchen decor. Since I painted my kitchen red, I wanted to decorate with all things Mexican.
So I have decided...then when I die, I want my family to celebrate Dia De Los Muertos. Have a party and bring me my favorite dishes to my grave. Sugar skulls and marigolds (or stargazer lilies) and a shot of Tequila.
"Life is a dream and only in death do we become truly awake"
